On Monday, August 12, two Polish F-16 fighter jets intercepted russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft that was conducting a mission in international airspace over the Baltic Sea, according to a statement from the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces on Tuesday.
The command announced the interception on X, detailing that the Polish jets had visually identified and intercepted russian aircraft, which did not breach Polish territorial waters while carrying out its reconnaissance mission.
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The interception by military aircraft typically involves approaching the foreign plane to establish visual and radio contact, particularly if it is nearing Polish airspace without prior communication. This procedure allows the pilots to identify the aircraft and, if necessary, guide it along a specific flight path or compel it to land at a designated airport.
“Airspace security is a top priority for the Polish military. Every day, our pilots are on combat alert, ready to defend Polish skies,” the Operational Command emphasized.
There have been several instances in recent months where Polish or allied fighters intercepted russian aircraft in Baltic region, with the last reported incident occurring in May. Russian reconnaissance flights over the Baltic Sea, often originating from bases near Kaliningrad, are not uncommon.
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